Jerry G. Kleen JD '63

Jerry G. Kleen JD ’63

07/07/2020

Jerry Gene (JK) Kleen JD ’63 passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by his family, on December 1, 2018. 

JK was born in Salem, Oregon, on August 10, 1929, to Elizabeth Francis and Alfred Henry Kleen. He attended Roberts School and North Salem High School. At 17, he joined the Merchant Marines. Shortly after his return to Salem, he was drafted by the U.S. Army.

After returning to Salem a second time, JK completed a BS at Willamette University. In 1963, JK opened a solo practice in Salem, where he practiced until his retirement in 2014. He joined the Oregon and the Marion County bar associations—he proudly displayed his 50-year pin from the Oregon Bar Association—and became a member of the California Trial Lawyers Association. He was also a member of the local Elks club and Illahe Country Club for many years.

JK’s family loved him deeply and his career was fulfilling. He was at peace and extremely grateful for the many blessings that were bestowed upon him.

JK was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Gary; his first wife, Beatrice Belinda Otjen, mother of his deceased daughter Christina; and his second wife, Geraldine S. Prescott, mother of his deceased children Claudia and Gerald. He is survived by his wife, Dr. Constance Kleen; his sister Darlene Hawley; his sister-in-law Kathy Kleen; grandchildren Linda Briggs, Toni Belgarde, and Richard Theiss; four great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren, as well as several nieces and nephews.